Washington § 12.40.020 - Action — Commencement — Fee.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.020 — Action — Commencement — Fee., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12.40.020. Action — Commencement — Fee.

A small claims action shall be commenced by the plaintiff filing a claim, in the form prescribed by RCW 12.40.050, in the small claims department. A filing fee of thirty-five dollars plus any surcharge authorized by RCW 7.75.035 shall be paid when the claim is filed. Any party filing a counterclaim, cross-claim, or third-party claim in such action shall pay to the court a filing fee of thirty-five dollars plus any surcharge authorized by RCW 7.75.035. Fifty cents of every filing fee shall be deposited into the judicial stabilization trust account created in RCW 43.79.505 and used to fund indigent defense through the office of public defense. Fifty cents of every filing fee shall be deposited into the crime victims' compensation account created in RCW 7.68.045 and used to assist crime victims.
[ 2019 c 251 s 1; 2011 1st sp.s. c 44 s 2; 2009 c 572 s 2; 2005 c 457 s 14; 1990 c 172 s 3; 1984 c 258 s 58; 1919 c 187 s 2; RRS s 1777-2.]

Notes

Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 44: See note following RCW 3.62.020.
Effective date—2009 c 572: See note following RCW 43.79.505.
Intent—2005 c 457: See note following RCW 43.08.250.
Effective date—1990 c 172: See note following RCW 7.75.035.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 12.40.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.020 cover?

Section 12.40.020 ("Action — Commencement — Fee.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 12.40.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 12.40.020" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 12.40.020 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.